The Love of Kestner Dolls

The late 19th Century is known for the increase in doll-making production. Toy companies and small family owned businesses across the world in Europe and in the United States began making dolls for young girls. Kestner was one of these well-known companies that specialized in children’s dolls.

Early on, Kestner began producing dolls with distinct and high quality bisque heads and composition bodies. These dolls could bend their legs and were quite exquisite in their craftsmanship. Every Kestner baby had its own details and unique features that made it stand out from all other dolls produced by other companies. Kestner was one of the few companies that brought an art to the creation of making dolls.

Kestner dolls are all about the details. From the fingertips to the eyebrows, Kestner dolls were and continue to be cherished for the fine points included in their creation. Some Kestner dolls had sleepy eyes and open mouths.

One of the most popular Kestner dolls is the Gibson Girl, which was introduced to the public in 1900. She is also one of the most valuable dolls today. The Bye-Lo Baby was another favorite which emerged in 1924. These dolls had composition bodies and bisque heads that would rotate. Only a few of these were produced, making them rare pieces today. Bye-Lo Babies evolved in design and began to have soft cloth bodies.

Back then, people adored Kestner dolls, much like they do today. They are truly authentic pieces of art and highly valuable collectibles. Doll collectors only appreciate the finer quality dolls that are out there and Kestner dolls are among them.